1998 BMW 320 vs. 2009 Mazda 6
To start off, 2009 Mazda 6 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,489 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 170 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 320 weights approximately 545 kg more than 2009 Mazda 6.
Because 1998 BMW 320 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 6, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Mazda 6 (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320. 1998 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 6 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 320 | 2009 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 320 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2169 cc | 2489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
